How To Use Outdoor Sauna: A Guide

Dec 27, 2025

Ever wondered why Outdoor Saunas feel amazing but sometimes overwhelming? Here’s the short answer: how to use outdoor sauna properly means heating it correctly, staying hydrated, timing sessions wisely, and cooling down safely. Keep reading to unlock benefits, avoid mistakes, and turn heat into pure relaxation.

Preparation and Heating Your Sauna

Preparing your sauna correctly is essential. Good preparation supports comfort, safety, and consistent heat. This includes heating the sauna properly, wearing suitable items, and preparing your body for heat exposure.

Pre-Heating Your Outdoor Sauna to the Perfect Temperature

Before entering your outdoor sauna, allow enough time for even heating.
Proper pre-heating improves comfort and reduces sharp temperature changes.

Wood-Fired Stoves: Lighting the Fire and Managing Airflow

Traditional wood-fired saunas use wood-burning heaters. Airflow control plays a key role in steady heat production. Feeding the fire gradually helps maintain a stable temperature.
This method also creates an authentic sauna atmosphere.

Round wooden barrel sauna with glass door and front benches in garden.

Electric Heaters: Using WiFi Apps and Manual Controllers

Electric outdoor saunas are simple to operate. Many models heat quickly and offer precise temperature control. Some use manual dials, while others connect to WiFi apps.
Both options allow easy adjustments during pre-heating.

The 45-Minute Rule: Allowing Stones to Reach Thermal Mass

Regardless of the heating method, patience matters. Allowing around 45 minutes lets the stones absorb enough heat. This creates stable warmth rather than sharp bursts of heat.
It also improves steam quality later on.

What to Wear and Bring for an Outdoor Session

Bringing the right items improves both comfort and hygiene.
Simple preparation makes the session more enjoyable.

Hydration Essentials: What to Drink Before You Step In

Hydration is essential before, during, and after sauna use. Sweating causes fluid loss that must be replaced. Water is ideal, though electrolyte drinks can also help.
Bring enough to sip between rounds.

Sauna Etiquette: Towels, Robes, and Sauna Hats

Towels are essential for sitting and drying off. They also help keep benches clean. Some users prefer sauna hats to manage heat exposure. Robes provide warmth during rest periods.

Two people relaxing inside a wooden sauna with benches and heater stones.

Leaving the Tech Behind: Why Phones and Saunas Don't Mix

Heat and electronics do not mix well. Phones can overheat or become damaged. Leaving devices outside also improves relaxation. The sauna is best enjoyed without distractions.

The Sauna Ritual – Heat, Cool, and Repeat

A traditional sauna follows a clear rhythm. Heat, cool down, rest, and repeat.

This cycle enhances comfort and overall benefits.

Step-by-Step: Managing Your First Heat Session

Enter the sauna calmly and choose a comfortable position. Avoid blocking airflow or touching hot surfaces. Breathe slowly and allow your body to adjust. Relaxation improves tolerance to heat.

The Art of “Löyly”: How to Safely Use Water on the Stones

Adding water to hot stones creates steam. This increases humidity and intensifies the heat. Use small amounts to maintain control. Too much water can cause discomfort.

Bench Height Strategy: Finding Your Ideal Heat Zone

Heat rises within the sauna. Higher benches feel hotter, while lower benches remain cooler. Choose your seating based on comfort and experience. You can change levels as needed.

Knowing When to Exit: Listening to Your Body’s Signals

Your body provides clear signals. Dizziness, nausea, or discomfort mean it’s time to exit. Leaving early is always better than pushing limits.

Safety should come first.

The Importance of the Cooling-Off and Rest Phases

Cooling down is as important as heating up. It helps regulate circulation and body temperature. Rest phases prevent overheating and fatigue.

The Cold Reset: Showers, Plunge Pools, or Fresh Garden Air

Cooling methods vary. Cold showers, plunge pools, or outdoor air all work well.

Each option refreshes the body.
Choose what feels comfortable.

The Rest Period: Why Relaxing Between Rounds is Mandatory

Resting allows the body to recover. Sit quietly and hydrate during this phase. This prepares you for the next session. Rushing reduces the benefits.

Light wooden oval sauna with front seating and chimney beside lakeside forest.

Post-Sauna Care and Maintenance

Looking after your sauna protects both hygiene and structure.
Routine care extends its lifespan.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Sauna After Use

Simple cleaning after each session makes a difference.
It keeps the sauna fresh and safe.

The “Drying Cycle”: Why Ventilation Prevents Mould and Rot

Moisture must be removed after use. Open vents or doors to allow airflow. Drying prevents mould and wood damage. This step is essential.

Wiping Down Benches and Managing Sweat Buildup

Benches collect sweat during sessions. Wipe them with a clean cloth after use.

Regular cleaning improves hygiene.
It also protects the wood.

Seasonal Maintenance: Protecting the Exterior Wood

Outdoor saunas face weather exposure. Seasonal checks help prevent wear.

Treating exterior wood protects against moisture.
This keeps the sauna in good condition year-round.